Thousands affected by drought in Namibia and Angola

The United Nations Children fund (UNICEF) is appealing for nearly $22 million to support populations affected by the ongoing severe drought in Namibia and Angola.

UNICEF says although the emergency is in the early stages, it is expected to deteriorate and urgent assistance is needed to support affected populations particularly women and children, to avert a nutritional and health crisis in both countries.

Patrick McCormick Spokesperson for UNICEF in Geneva, has more details on the appeal.

"We will be focusing on the prevention and treatment of malnutrition and disease, and protection risks and supporting children's access to education. In Namibia, there are more than 778,000 people affected including 109,000 children under five at risk of malnutrition after almost three decades of low seasonal rainfall and a second year of failed rains in some locations. Similarly Angola has entered a prolonged dry season and millions of children may be potentially impacted by the drought. Water levels are quickly decreasing and about 40-50 per cent of water points are no longer functioning."

UNICEF Namibia is appealing for $7.4 million while UNICEF Angola is appealing for $14.3 million.